LAPU-LAPU – Facts You Must Know About The Hero In The Battle Of Mactan
LAPU-LAPU – In this topic, we will now learn about the first Filipino hero who fought the Spaniards in the Battle of Mactan: Lapu-Lapu.
In Philippine history, the first Filipino hero ever recorded was the ruler of Mactan, Lapu-lapu. He is most famous for the Battle of Mactan, where he and his men ended the voyage of Portugese voyager Ferdinand Magellan, resulting in Magellan’s death.
His only existence were recorded in documents written by Antonio Pigafetta.
Here are some of the interesting facts you should know about the first ever Filipino hero, according to Knoji.
1. His Birth and Death
Lapu-lapu was said to be born in 1491. Some say that he died in 1542 in Mactan, while other said there was a legend that he never died and was turned to stone to guard the Seas of Mactan. One thing is sure, no one knew about his demise.
2. Reason Of Being The First Filipino Hero
He was the first recorded native to have fought against the Spaniards, thus, he was the first ever Filipino hero.
3. The Battle Of Mactan
Based on the report, this was the only reason he became famous. He fought against Magellan and his men to what we know as the Battle of Mactan. the war ended with Magellan and some of his men killed.
4. His Other Names
Lapu-Lapu is the chieftain of Mactan and he was reportedly called as Çilapulapu, Si Lapulapu, Salip Pulaka, Cali Pulaco, and Lapulapu Dimantag.
5. His Legacy
A Filipino propagandist named Mariano Ponce has his pen name “Kalipulako” named after the hero. Not only that, he was the central figure in seals of the Philippine National Police and the Bureau of Fire Protection. Lastly, a MOBA character was based on the likeness of the hero.